Reconciliation is a process of coping with contradictions and finding peace. Examples of processes and states in nature, in the person (thoughts, feelings, deeds) and relations:

a tree bends under the wind (but remains in its place);

I want to play/rest but I have to study/work (so they follow one another);

we overcome obstacles on the way to our purpose;

we have contrary viewpoints but look for compromise (and we reach it);

we have quarrelled but we need to reconcile (and I apologize);

two countries at war reconcile (and sign peace treaty).

“The fluid soft lines which the hands make in front, to the sides and back again are magnetic. These are lines of softness and reconciliation. They are helping us to resolve all the contradictions of life through gentleness and reconciliation.” [Beinsa Douno, Paneurhythmy, p.44]

QUESTIONS

1. Text: Give a synonym to “rejoice”. A flower welcomes springtime: what does it have to reconcile with? Write in your own beautiful words a sentence/essay/poem about reconciliation.

2. Drawing: Draw two friends who reconcile. Draw two pictures of war and of peace: with images or colours or shapes. Draw an illustration to the exercise.

3. Questions: What is it that you have to put up with (to reconcile with) in everyday life?

4. Experience: Tell us of situations and experiences when you have overcome some contradiction and found peace. What is the feeling?

5. Imagination: Imagine while you play that your hands are two parties at war which go to the house of peace when hands touch.

6. Affirmations: Write your own positive affirmation for reconciliation. For example: I can cope with difficulties. I can manage my tasks.

7. Quotes: The practice of peace and reconciliation is one of the most vital and artistic of human actions (Nhat Hanh). Find your favourite quote.